Azuki's Tales

Day 5 on Jeju was pure magic with Trazy’s West Coast tour. From the crystal-clear waters of Hyeopjae Beach to the enchanting trails of Hallim Park and Gotjawal Forest, each stop revealed a new secret of the island. I savoured the flavours at O’Sulloc Tea Museum, 'hiked' Songaksan Mountain’s breathtaking views, and was mesmerised by Cheonjeyeon Waterfall’s beauty. Want to know the hidden gems and tips from this unforgettable day? Read the full story on my blog!

From the buzz of Seoul to the breeze of Jeju—day two took us from city lights to island skies. What surprised us, soothed us, or made us laugh along the way? Come wander with us.

Our third day in our K-adventure was one of contrasts — from soaring heights at Namsan Tower with panoramic views over Seoul, to the comforting warmth of bubbling hot pot at Haidilao. It was a day of seeing the city from above and then grounding ourselves in a meal that felt like home. Come along as we wandered between skyline and soup.

Touching down in Seoul felt like stepping into a vibrant new world — a dazzling mix of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. The crisp air carried a promise of discovery, and the city’s energy was almost palpable through the airplane window. As I navigated the buzz of the airport and caught my first glimpse of this dynamic metropolis, I knew my K-adventure was truly underway. Ready to explore what awaited? Come along for the ride.

Airports are often a blur of queues, waiting games, and overpriced snacks — but this time, something was different. Nestled into the calm of the lounge, I traded the usual chaos for warm lighting, a quiet corner, and a steaming cup of tea. It was my first time flying business, and the experience gently shifted my whole perspective on travel. Curious how it all began? Read on.

Long before take-off, my itinerary began taking shape through conversations and recommendations. From honest reviews to hidden gems, I leaned into the wisdom of friends and seasoned travellers to map out the moments that would matter most. Sometimes, the best guides are the ones who’ve wandered there before you.

The adventure didn’t start at the airport—it started with a spreadsheet, a hundred open tabs, and a dream. Planning my Korea trip became its own kind of journey: full of excitement, overwhelm, and little sparks of joy as the pieces started to come together. From juggling flights to mapping out Seoul, Jeju, and Busan, this post captures the behind-the-scenes of bringing the adventure to life.

Before the plane ticket was booked, there was a quiet shift—a journey before the journey. Japan had long held the spotlight, but Korea called me in an unexpected way. What started as a spontaneous “why not?” became the spark for an unforgettable adventure through Seoul, Jeju, and Busan. This is where my k-adventure all began.

Vistas, Villas & Vibes: My Lake Como Edition - Final Reflections This trip wasn’t just a getaway—it was a reminder. That slowing down is healing. That beauty doesn’t need to shout. That some of the best moments come when you let the plan loosen a little. Lake Como gave me more than just memories—it gave me space to dream, reflect, and feel deeply present. And honestly? I can’t wait to return.

Vistas, Villas & Vibes: My Lake Como Edition - Day 5 Our last morning started with a familiar comfort—Starbucks in Milan. It wasn’t lakeside magic, but there was something grounding about a warm drink and a quiet breakfast before the flight. Bags packed, hearts a little fuller, we boarded our plane back to London. Tired, grateful, and already reminiscing.

Vistas, Villas & Vibes: My Lake Como Edition - Day 4 We said a soft goodbye to Bellagio and began the long trail back to Milan. Boats, trains, and a bit of aimless wandering later, we landed in the city for one last night. It was a strange shift—buzzing streets replacing still water—but part of me liked the contrast. It felt like stepping back into the real world, just not quite ready to let go yet.

Vistas, Villas & Vibes: My Lake Como Edition - Day 3 Bellano wasn’t on our original list—but maybe that’s why it felt like such a gem. Slower, sleepier, and a little more rugged around the edges, it gave us space to breathe. We strolled along the lake, peeked into quiet alleyways, and just let the day unfold. No crowds, no rush—just us, the water, and the feeling that this was our little secret.

Vistas, Villas & Vibes: My Lake Como Edition - Day 2 Day two took us across the water to Varenna—a quiet, postcard-perfect town that felt like it had been waiting for us. We wandered through Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi, both brimming with old-world charm and gardens that didn’t feel real. It was the kind of beauty that made you slow down without even trying. Somewhere between the flowers and the lake views, a little part of me started dreaming differently.

Vistas, Villas & Vibes: My Lake Como Edition - Day 1 We landed in Milan running on excitement and not much sleep, dragging our suitcases through train stations and ferry docks like determined (but slightly lost) explorers. By the time we reached Bellagio, the chaos melted into calm. Dinner by the lakeside felt like a reward—twinkling lights, the soft ripple of the water, and the local cuisine. Day one, and Lake Como was already working its magic.

Vistas, Villas & Vibes: My Lake Como Edition - Pre Planning Before the lakeside views and pasta plates, there was a flurry of spreadsheets, flight rebookings, and frantic early-morning transport checks. From navigating Ryanair chaos to choosing the perfect base in Bellagio, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at all the planning (and panicking) that went into making our Lake Como trip happen. Because let’s be honest—sometimes the journey before the journey is the wildest part.

Vistas, Villas & Vibes: My Lake Como Edition - Prologue I didn’t expect Lake Como to leave such a mark on me—but the moment I saw those still waters and towering mountains, something clicked. What was meant to be a peaceful escape turned into something more—slow boat rides, hidden villas, and quiet moments that made me feel like I was living inside a dream.